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What Can You Use Your HSA for in 2018?

Published June 7, 2024

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Short answer: In 2018, HSA funds can be used for qualified medical expenses, OTC medications without a prescription, medical supplies, preventive care, COBRA premiums, long-term care, and certain alternative treatments.

Using HSA funds for medical care

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) have become a popular way for individuals to save and pay for qualified medical expenses. If you have an HSA in 2018, there are several ways you can use the funds:

Qualified Medical Expenses: You can use your HSA funds for a wide range of medical expenses not covered by your insurance, including deductibles, copayments, prescriptions, and vision and dental care.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications: In 2018, you can use your HSA funds to purchase over-the-counter medications without a prescription, such as pain relievers, cold medicine, and allergy relief.

Medical Supplies: You can also use your HSA funds to buy medical supplies like bandages, crutches, blood sugar test kits, and more.

Preventive Care: HSA funds can be used for preventive care services like screenings, vaccines, and annual check-ups.

COBRA Premiums: If you are eligible for COBRA continuation coverage, you can use your HSA to pay for the premiums.

Long-Term Care: You can use your HSA funds to pay for long-term care services and premiums for long-term care insurance.

Alternative Treatments: Some alternative treatments like acupuncture and chiropractic care may also be eligible expenses.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) have gained popularity as a flexible way for individuals to manage their healthcare costs. In 2018, you have several options for utilizing your HSA funds effectively.

Qualified Medical Expenses: Your HSA can cover many medical expenses that insurance may not, such as high deductibles, copays, and essential treatments beyond standard coverage, including vision correction procedures and extensive dental work.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications: A welcome change in 2018 allows you to use HSA funds for over-the-counter medications without needing a prescription, making it easier to manage common health issues like headaches and allergies.

Medical Supplies: You can utilize HSA funds for necessary medical supplies, encompassing items like thermometers, heating pads, and medical devices, enhancing your home healthcare toolkit.

Preventive, COBRA, and long-term care

Preventive Care: Payments for preventive services are eligible, ensuring you can prioritize your health with regular screenings, immunizations, and general wellness visits, all covered by your HSA.

COBRA Premiums: For those enrolled in COBRA coverage, HSA funds can ease the financial burden by covering your monthly premiums, allowing for continued health insurance access.

Long-Term Care: You can allocate HSA funds towards long-term care insurance premiums and services, providing a financial cushion for future health needs.

Alternative treatments eligible with HSA

Alternative Treatments: Many individuals turn to alternative therapies; your HSA can help pay for eligible services like acupuncture, massage therapy, or chiropractic adjustments, promoting holistic health.

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